Which term refers to speaking in a "round about" way to avoid directly naming something?

The term that refers to speaking in a "round about" way to avoid directly naming something is circumlocution. This communication strategy involves using a more elaborate expression, often involving many words, to describe a concept without naming it directly. This can occur for various reasons, such as to soften the impact of what is being communicated, to navigate social sensitivities, or when the speaker is unsure of the precise terminology.

Circumlocution is often observed in individuals who may have language impairments, where they may describe something extensively rather than using the exact word, which reflects their effort to convey meaning despite potential challenges in their expressive language abilities. Understanding this term is crucial in areas such as speech-language pathology, where practitioners may help individuals improve direct communication skills and develop strategies to enhance expressive language efficiency.